Meet Dave the Rave – Retro Light Enthusiast

Introducing Dave the Rave — an iconic figure in East London’s retro scene. Dave isn't your ordinary collector — he’s a obsessed seeker of neon signs that once lit up clubs across the UK. Since his teenage years, Dave has been scouring auction houses, tracking down authentic neon signs. He often shares stories about how he got hooked on neon lights — it all started with a flickering "Open" sign above a fish and chip shop in Bethnal Green.

That ignited a fascination that would soon become a calling. Dave’s collection is now one-of-a-kind. He keeps his finds in a converted warehouse studio in Hackney, filled wall-to-wall with glowing signage from the '50s through to the early 2000s. Some signs are fully restored; others retain the raw charm of their heyday. Each piece tells a story of London’s history — and Dave is the curator. As Dave puts it, neon signs are "ghosts of the night." They’re not just lights, they’re artifacts of a once-glorious cityscape.

Dave doesn't hoard for himself. He’s also been featured in local galleries, loaning pieces for curation. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s mission even more remarkable is how he’s preserving London’s past. In a world where LEDs are replacing everything, he believes in the true art of gas-filled glass tubes. "You can’t replicate that hum or flicker with modern lights," he often says.

He’s also mentoring younger artists and design students, helping to keep the neon spirit alive. His workshop hosts classes in neon bending. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a beloved figure. People affectionately call him when they spot neon signs; visit my web page, being tossed out. He’s the go-to collector of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into retro vibes or just love the mystique of neon, Dave’s journey is worth discovering. And in his words, "If it glows, I’m going after it.

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